The following executive summary is based on a comprehensive and impartial AI analysis of guest reviews. Keep in mind that all units are individually owned, and review scores among units can vary considerably.
Travelers rave about Kona Reef’s oceanfront setting and walk-to-everything location. Most describe spending sunrise to sunset on the lanai watching surfers, boogie boarders, outriggers, dolphins and seasonal whales, with the sound of waves as a constant backdrop and postcard sunsets each night. The pool, hot tub and BBQs sit right by the water, there’s a grassy oceanfront lawn with loungers, and Honl’s Beach next door adds a lively, local vibe. Being a short stroll from Kailua-Kona’s restaurants, shops, and the pier is a major plus and makes this a convenient home base for exploring the Big Island.
Units are individually owned, but many guests find them clean, comfortable and impressively well stocked—full kitchens, in‑unit washer/dryers, beach gear (chairs, umbrellas, coolers, snorkel sets), and thoughtful extras. Quite a few condos have been nicely remodeled, beds are often noted as comfy, and hosts are frequently praised for fast, friendly communication. Parking is included and generally easy, though spaces can be tight or fill late. Overall, repeat stays and “would book again” comments are common.
Themes to know: this is an older, well-kept complex with variability between units. Some condos are modern; others feel dated or need a deeper clean, and occasional maintenance hiccups (sticky sliders, appliance issues) crop up but are usually addressed quickly. Air conditioning differs by unit—some have split AC in living room and bedroom, others only in the living room, and a few rely on ocean breezes and fans—so confirm if cooling is important, especially in warmer months. Honl’s Beach is small and often rocky (great for surfing and people-watching, less for casual swimming), and a handful of reviewers noted road noise or the presence of unhoused individuals near the adjacent park, typically not disruptive. If you pick an updated, oceanfront unit that matches your AC and location preferences, Kona Reef delivers the classic Kona experience: easy days by the water, spectacular sunsets, and effortless access to town.
This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 reviews
The unit is in great condition and the location could not be better. You are feet from the oceans edge and an easy 5-10 minute walk to restaurants and shops. The complex was very quiet and offered great amenities, including a fantastic pool! I would definitely stay here again if I get lucky to visit Kona a second time!
Jeff A.
November 2025
Very nice view
Gregg W.
November 2025
ALOHA... We liked the oceanfront balcony above the crashing waves. The location (close to town) and the view are definite highlights. Parking is easy and the pool is great!
Debra F.
November 2025
Location and property amenities were great
Melissa J.
November 2025
I’m from the Big Island & living out of state. We come yearly and have used 3 other condos in Kona Reef. This condo is the BEST u’ll ever find. CLEAN, super HOST, beach view from EVERY ROOM & BALCONY!! If u’ve ever been to Hawaii u know how important AC Fans are. This unit has AC Fans in EVERY ROOM….Fan even on balcony!!…where we spent most of our time…beach to left, surfers/ships/canoes in front of u. Owners have thought of ALL your needs and it’s there….open a drawer/cupboard inside and outside/balcony is a chest full of beach stuff!! Beach Towels!! Our daughter-in-law did her first snorkeling at Honl’s Beach (we watched her from balcony)…thanks to equipment there!! Beach chairs, matts, Boogie boards, beach umbrellas . Fully equipped kitchen. We will be REPEAT customers!! I have found the perfect place to enjoy coming HOME…and owner is easily assessable for any questions.
Val S.
November 2025
Excellent location and view of the ocean. Shops and restaurants were within walking distance. Communication with the host was excellent making check in and out a snap. I highly recommend this property.
Steve P.
November 2025
This condo is in a great location, walking distance to town and dining. The view is spectacular and the lanai is spacious with a fantastic views the ocean. Would love to stay here again!
Terri B.
November 2025
The view was spectacular. The rooms were spacious. We enjoyed our time at the property.
streamline p.
November 2025
We always love Kona Reef!! Beautiful views and great people! We come every year!
Sam J.
November 2025
Place is exactly like the picture, so it was great. People running the condo were responsive and accommodating, so would definitely stay there again.
Laith S.
November 2025
Perfect location!
Michael H.
November 2025
Beautiful location
Makaha Pole House P.
November 2025
We love this condo , loyal customers here .
We will be back
Carmen F.
November 2025
Excellent location, beautiful condo, equipped with beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers. Fabulous lanai to have coffee in am and overlook ocean in pm. Stunning - I could have sat and watched the waves break on the ocean rocks all day. Highly recommend!
Karen M.
November 2025
Room was a bit musty smelling when we got there but didn't last long. The only real complaint we had was the toilet paper. It was so thin you could see through it! Other than that fabulous experience.
Danielle D.
November 2025
Condo was perfect. We've stayed in 6 other units here and it was one of the best. Everything we needed and the lanai and view were the best part. Great communication with Ken and Jim. Would definitely come back
Stephanie C.
November 2025
Great view , close to pool and jacuzzi
Carmen F.
November 2025
We absolutely loved our stay at this beautiful oceanfront condo in Kona! The view was stunning — we could listen to the soothing sound of the waves all day and enjoy breathtaking sunsets right from the balcony. The location couldn’t be better, just a short walk to Kona’s shopping and dining areas, yet still peaceful and relaxing.Our host, Bill, was wonderful — very responsive and kind. He even went out of his way to personally drop off an iron when we requested one, which we truly appreciated.The condo had everything we needed for a comfortable stay, and we felt right at home from the moment we arrived. Overall, it was a perfect vacation spot, and we’d love to come back again soon! Highly recommend!
Nemish V.
November 2025
Million View! Pride of ownership of the property is noticed immediately, very well remodeled. Location is so convenient. Great Place to stay, highly recommended.
Curtis W.
November 2025
Wonderful condo and location! Great communication with the host who was very accommodating of our flight schedules. Loved being able to walk into town for shopping and meals. Watching surfers, spinner dolphins, and sunsets made each day unique and special. Highly recommend this condo which had everything we needed for a great stay.
Steve S.
November 2025
Just perfect! The space was quiet, clean, and very well appointed with a fully stocked kitchen and beach gear. The bed was so comfortable! We loved sitting on the lanai to watch the sunset and listen to the sounds of waves crashing below. The pool area was never crowded and the grills in the common area were spotless. Parking was easy and the location was convenient.The only issue we had was a problem with a faulty kitchen appliance and it was resolved in less than 24 hours. We were very impressed with the level of responsiveness. The communication ahead of our visit was great too, absolutely no complaints. Highly recommend this location for your next visit to the Kona area!
Carrie M.
November 2025
This is a very clean and tidy condo. It has just enough of everything we needed. The view is gorgeous. We enjoyed watching surfers and the evening sunsets. It's an easy walk into town. We would definitely stay here again.
November 2025
Beautiful condo with a beautiful view overlooking the ocean. Enjoyed the friendly and respectful neighbors. Surprisingly quiet for such a short walk to downtown. Our host is super responsive, friendly, and helpful. Could not have asked for better!
Karin F.
November 2025
The location and ocean view were lovely, and the sunsets were truly beautiful. Unfortunately, the unit itself did not live up to the description or the photos. While the ad described it as “beautifully upgraded,” I did not see anything that appeared new or updated. The space felt very tired, musty, and in need of a VERY deep clean.Although the listing noted air conditioning, the windows were so old and dirty that they could not be properly closed, making the A/C ineffective. The bed was comfortable, but the sheets had not been washed and had to be cleaned before use. Most of the light bulbs in the unit were burnt out, and there were no replacements available.The building overall is quite rundown, and the unit needs maintenance and care to match what is being advertised. The view was the highlight, but we would not stay here again.
Kimberly Ann T.
November 2025
This was our 2nd time at Kona Reef. We love the location and the view from the lanai is A!
Vickie G.
October 2025
Great sunset views, good pool, close to town.
Kevin M.
October 2025
This place earns a top rating because of its sensational view; cleanliness; furnishings and amenities; superior proximity to shops and dining and owner responsiveness. It has everything we needed and nothing that we didn't need. Everything works, we were comfortable with the sea breeze coming through by day and with the A/C at night. We would definitely stay here again.
Mike L.
October 2025
Convenient location, enjoyed many activities around Kona, walkable to town. Several great snorkeling beaches in the area. Easily accommodated 6 adults, enjoyed the lanai and views every morning and evening! The pool /hot tub are great. The only issues is the carpet is stained in several spots, some outlets don’t work, and the dishwasher smells musty. But that being said, I would definitely book again. Location made everyone in our group happy!
Laura C.
October 2025
Had a fantastic stay at Kona Reef. This condo was very clean, well stocked, and really had everything we needed. The location was perfect, and we especially loved sitting on the lanai and looking out at the ocean and listening to the waves. From the moment we booked it to the moment we checked out, communication from the rental agency was excellent. Thank you for the great stay! Will definitely be back next trip to the Big Island!
Jennifer L.
October 2025
We really enjoyed our stay! The condo was updated, clean and very comfortable. It was walking distance to Kona shops and restaurants. After a day of exploring the island or visiting a beach it was nice to come back to. The beach chairs and umbrella, cooler and snorkel gear were also very much appreciated. We also enjoyed the pool and cooking area although the grills could be updated. They didn’t always heat up. We loved sitting on the lanai watching the waves, surfers and of course the beautiful sunsets.
Rhonda W.
October 2025
We had a wonderful week. The condo while not perfect was very comfortable and in a great location. We even saw some dolphins this morning before we left. Thank you for the rental.
Terri P.
October 2025
It was a very comfortable and clean condo. Great view. Well located. We enjoyed the beach equipment. The only thing were there were some small ants in the kitchen. Otherwise it was well stocked. Ice maker and Britta were great. We enjoyed our visit. Thank you for your responsiveness. Best, Peggy
Peggy W.
October 2025
Lovely oceanfront condo with amazing sunset views! Loved falling asleep every night listening to the ocean waves crashing very nearby. Pool/hot tub/BBQ just steps away and conventionally located close to restaurants/bars. Will definitely stay again when heading back to the Big Island!
Jennifer W.
October 2025
Great ocean view location and coffee on the balcony could not be beat. AC worked great. Plenty of supplies in the kitchen. Extras for enjoying the ocean/beach in the deck box. Decor has changed since VRBO photos, and was a bit more vibrant than I expected. Enjoyed our time there with easy walk to town, dining and Ironman activities. Hosts were quick to answer questions!
Trish M.
October 2025
It was very well- equipped and clean. Quite comfortable. But the sliding glass door was very heavy and the lock was broken. The ac unit worked well but was very noisy
Constance B.
October 2025
We had a great time. Thank you!
Joella B.
October 2025
This place was just the perfect spot. Beautiful sunsets every night. Close proximity to restaurants and shops. We have a wonderful time.
Felita E.
October 2025
Great
Kelly O.
October 2025
B34 was so thoughtfully equipped! Plenty of dishes so we only ran the dishwasher once through the week. All paper products, trash bags, laundry detergent, soap, etc was provided and we were specifically asked to request more if needed! Marni was super easy to work with too. One restaurant to add to your list is Umekes near Kona Brewing Co (also a fun place!). The fresh ahi at Umekes was amazing!
Kathy M.
October 2025
Will be back. Wonderful unit. Well stocked. Better than a hotel for sure.
paul g.
October 2025
This is an excellent place to stay. The listing is entirely accurate and the views are unparalleled. Easy access to everything on the island. Parking is free and convenient. Kitchen is very well stocked with equipment in excellent shape. We found this to be an absolutely ideal place to stay for our visit.
Ann D.
October 2025
Wonderful location and condo
Amrick S.
October 2025
Amazing condo! We love the lanai and the view from the living room right out to the ocean. The location is perfect! Just a short walk to a bunch of restaurants and shops. We wouldn't hesitate to book again!
October 2025
We have stayed at Kona Reef more than 10 times in many of the ground floor ocean facing units and this was probably the best.Well appointed, air conditioned throughout, great cable tv that also allowed streaming. Thanks Casago, we'll be back.
Frederick T.
October 2025
Nice place. Good location. Condo matched listing. We had a little difficulty figuring out the keypad to let us in but we figured it out. I would recommend to others to stay here.
David B.
October 2025
The property was just what we wanted & hoped for. Great views across the ocean & beautiful sunsets.The aoartment was great with fans in each room, it was spacious and didnt get too warm during the day. There were extensive cooking facilities and lots of little extras that you would have at home.The bed was super comfy (a black out curtain would help though), bathroom was good with a nice large shower.Plenty of parking & the location wise was about 20min walk to the pier area.All in all we had a great stay and love this placed. If we could, we'd definitely want to teturn here.
Claire G.
October 2025
Property is accurately described. Unit is spacious and comfortable. They have done a nice job of setting up the lanai, a great place for breakfast each morning. The unit is the first unit to the road, so loud cars and their music can be a momentary alarm clock, but wasn’t a big issue for us. The view of the beach/park is kinda along the side of the building. It isn’t directly ocean front. Again, accurate by the description and commensurate with the cost. I would rent the unit again and appreciated the attention of the host and management company any time we needed something.
Lee T.
October 2025
Well appointed condo with a significant amount of extras that were appreciated (i.e. cooler, beach chairs, umbrella, yoga mats, etc.). Kitchen is well equipped from storage containers to appropriate pool vs. indoor dishware.
Natalie G.
October 2025
Everything was perfect except the unit has a bad smell to it. We sat outside most of the time and having the air/fans on helped.
Amanda S.
October 2025
This property was perfect for our stay in Kona. Location, location, location! The views from the lanai are amazing. From watching surfers in the morning, to cruise ships in the afternoon, and finally having front row seats for spectacular sunsets. Honl's Beach is right out the door and the Kona restaurant district (near the pier) is just a short walk from the condo. Check-in and check-out were very easy and communication with the property manager was met with a quick response. This property is truly a 10 out of 10!
Mike D.
October 2025